13 February 2024 , 15:52
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Brits have revealed their top 30 food-related turn-offs – with being rude to waiters or waitresses topping the list for six in 10, research has found.
Other mealtime “icks” include someone eating with their mouth open, picking their teeth, or talking with a mouthful of food. And slurping soup, licking a knife, or criticising someone's cooking also ranked highly – as did spitting food back out onto a plate (49%).
The research of 2,000 adults found that almost two-thirds (63%) feel food is an important factor when it comes to relationships. In fact, over a fifth (21%) even admit that it would be a point of contention for them if their partner did not enjoy their favourite meal.
However, when it comes to green flags for foodies, a surprise date night (35%), and having someone cook for them (54%), are among the top things a potential suitor can do right.
The research was commissioned by Domino's to mark its partnership with Cadbury's Crème Egg with a “Domino’s Cookie with Crème Egg”.
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And Brits are more than twice as likely to opt for a takeaway, over a meal out (Domino's)Psychologist and love expert, Jo Hemmings, said: “Over the years, I’ve been able to get a real insight into relationships and what makes people tick – and something that always comes up on top is food.
“Food really is an important element when it comes to relationships and dating. You can always a tell a thing or two by a person’s eating and food habits – so, whether you’re lucky in love, or can’t stand the sight of Valentine’s Day, remember to keep these top ticks and icks in mind.”
The study also found that, while there’s an abundance of food icks which turn us off, only 28% would be willing to speak out on a first date. There’s a short shrift for fussy eaters, too, with 23% unwilling to date someone who sticks to the straight and narrow.
If you’re looking to win over a potential suitor, a meal is a good way of going about it, as 82% admit food makes them happy – with 35% saying that someone else doing the tidying up after they have cooked, is also among their top food turn-ons.
And the other half picking up the bill was also a positive for 35% – particularly for women (42%), compared to just 27% of men.
However, if you’re wondering whether going out might be the answer, think again – as a takeaway at home (55%) far outweighs a night out (21%).
A spokesman for Domino's, which is allowing people to test their love compatibility at www.lovedommeter.co.uk, said: “Whether you like your crust stuffed, or your wedges double-dipped, it’s clear that food can make or break a relationship.
“Pizza is perfect for those struggling with date night indecisiveness – so if you’re debating what you want for dinner, leave it to us to tingle the tastebuds this Valentine’s Day, with a piping hot delivery that is guaranteed to give you love at first slice.”
TOP 30 FOOD TURN-OFFS:
- Being rude to waiters or waitresses
- Eating with their mouth open
- Talking with a mouthful of food
- Spitting something back out onto a plate
- Picking their teeth
- Slurping soup
- Eating other people's leftovers without asking
- Licking a knife
- Criticising someone's cooking
- Licking their fingers instead of using a napkin
- Double-dipping on a shared spread
- Starting to eat before the whole table has their food
- Putting ketchup on every meal
- Preparing fish in the office microwave
- Playing with food
- Hogging food
- Swallowing without chewing
- Sucking in spaghetti or noodles
- Stealing some of your chips while they wait for their own meal
- Adding salt before they have tried the food
- Eating really quickly
- Eating with their hands
- Hogging the dips
- Not putting their knife and fork together after finishing their plate of food
- Someone ordering really stinky cheese
- Taking ages to eat
- Mixing ketchup and mayo together
- Eating just the pizza, and leaving the crusts
- Using a knife and fork to eat pizza
- Ordering a well-done steak